rapping

American  

[rap-ing] / ˈræp ɪŋ /

noun

1. the act or sound of a person or thing that raps.

2. communication by the sound of taps or knocks, as between medium and spirit during a séance.

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Etymology

Origin of rapping

1350–1400; Middle English. See rap ¹, -ing ¹

Example Sentences

From the start, Rocky has been most highly praised for his taste and aesthetic sense rather than raw rapping skill or lyricism, and his albums tend to be a showcase for his wide-ranging musical interests.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 20, 2026

The video for his new song Story of a Pauper, from his EP Undeniable, pays tribute to his childhood, with Oraka rapping: "I've come a long way from getting chases."

From BBC • Dec. 30, 2025

There is rapping, there is pop-locking, there is scratching, there is narrative and character.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 11, 2025

But before making his name as a producer, he had a preceding reputation as one half of the rapping duo the Whooliganz.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 12, 2025

Though many found the idea of knocking spirits ridiculous, the rapping sounds were mysterious—bouncing off the theater’s walls, floorboards, and ceiling.

From "American Spirits" by Barb Rosenstock